Education Loan for Pilot Training 2025
Pursuing pilot training can be expensive, but an education loan can help cover the high costs. Many financial institutions offer specialized pilot training loans that provide funding for both domestic and international aviation programs. These loans typically cover up to 100% of the course fees, with flexible repayment options and a moratorium period until course completion.
Additionally, some lenders offer collateral-free loans based on academic merit and future earning potential. Choosing the right education loan for pilot training ensures financial support without burdening students during their training period.
By the end of this blog, you will know
- The latest education loan options for pilot training in 2025, including banks, private lenders, and government schemes.
- The eligibility criteria, required documents, and step-by-step loan application process for aspiring pilots.
- The loan repayment terms, tax benefits under Section 80E, and financial planning tips for managing pilot training loans.
Requirements for Becoming a Pilot
Before applying for an education loan for pilot training, students must meet these basic eligibility criteria:
Age
Minimum 17–18 years for a Student Pilot License and 21 years for a Commercial Pilot License.
Medical Fitness
Must pass medical tests set by aviation bodies, covering eyesight, hearing, BMI, and overall health.
Education
Completion of 10+2 with Physics, Mathematics, and English is mandatory.
Aptitude Tests
Candidates must clear tests evaluating communication, cognitive skills, decision-making, and multitasking abilities.
Flight Training
Completion of required flying hours and exams to obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL) and later a Commercial Pilot License (CPL).
English Skills
Strong written and verbal English communication is essential for navigation and global communication.
While meeting these requirements is the first step, the cost of pilot training can be high. This is where education loans for pilot training become crucial.
Education Loan for Pilot Training in India: An Overview
Pilot training is one of the costliest professional courses, but with the right education loan for pilot training, students can fund their dreams without financial stress. Here’s a quick overview to help you manage your finances effectively:
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Category
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Details
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Cost of Pilot Training (2025)
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- ₹35 lakh – ₹1 crore
- Covers: Ground school, flight hours, simulator sessions, training materials, exam fees, accommodation & living expenses
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Loan Features & Benefits
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- Loan amounts up to ₹1.5 crore (secured loans)
- Repayment tenure: up to 15 years
- Interest rates: starting from 9.50%* - Moratorium: course duration + 12 months
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Eligibility
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- Age: 18–35 years
- Education: 10+2 with Physics, Math, English
- Co-applicant (parent/guardian/relative) required
- Admission letter from recognized flight school
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Loan Options & Margin Money
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- Offered by banks & NBFCs
- Margin money: 5%–15% (varies by lender)
- NBFCs provide faster approvals & flexible criteria
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Loan Coverage
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- Tuition fees & exam charges
- Accommodation & living costs
- Uniforms, equipment & study materials
- Travel expenses (if included)
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Explore how Education Loan Without Collateral can be a game changer in supporting students for high-cost courses like pilot training.
Top Pilot Training Institutes in India and their Fees
Here is an overview of the top 10 pilot training institutes in India along with their annual fee structures:
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Pilot Training Institute
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Approximate Annual Fee (INR)
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Adventure Flight Education Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore
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₹32.8 Lakhs
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Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA)
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₹45 Lakhs
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Madhya Pradesh Flying Club (MPFC)
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₹35.4 Lakhs
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National Flying Training Institute (NFTI)
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₹36.4 Lakhs
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Ahmedabad Aviation & Aeronautics Ltd. (AAA)
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₹23.3 Lakhs
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Bombay Flying Club
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₹36.9 Lakhs
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Rajiv Gandhi Aviation Academy
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₹20 Lakhs
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Government Flying Training School
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₹25 Lakhs to ₹35 Lakhs
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Orient Flights Aviation Academy (OFAA)
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₹38.5 Lakhs
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Indian Aviation Academy
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₹15 Lakhs to ₹20 Lakhs
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Dream College? We’ll Fund It
Education Loan For Pilot Training Abroad
The cost and eligibility criteria for pilot training abroad vary depending on the country. On average, pilot training expenses in the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia range between ₹40 lakh and ₹80 lakh. However, with education loans for pilot training, aspiring pilots can secure funding of up to ₹1.5 crore to cover their training costs.
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Feature
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Details
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Loan Amount
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Up to ₹1.5 crores with collateral
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Interest Rate
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Starting from 10.90%
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Moratorium Period
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Course duration + 12 months
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Repayment Tenure
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Up to 15 years after the moratorium
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Expenses Covered
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Tuition fees, hostel and food expenses, computer or laptop, training equipment, books, stationery, project costs, excursions, thesis work, and travel expenses
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Top Pilot Training Institutes Abroad and their Fees
Aspiring pilots who are planning for international training can explore some of the world’s leading flight training institutes that provide comprehensive programs with diverse fee structures. To support better financial planning, here is an overview of the top 10 pilot training institutes abroad along with their average annual fee ranges.
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International Pilot Training Institute
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Average Annual Fee (INR)
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Aerosim Flight Academy
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₹49.96 Lakhs to ₹74.94 Lakhs
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CTC Aviation
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₹63.14 Lakhs to ₹84.18 Lakhs
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Singapore Flying College
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₹43.76 Lakhs to ₹93.77 Lakhs
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Olympus Aviation Academy
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₹45.1 Lakhs to ₹90.18 Lakhs
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Ardmore Flying School
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₹31 Lakhs
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Western Michigan University, College of Aviation
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₹7 Lakhs to ₹18 Lakhs
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Ohio State University, College of Aviation
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₹30 Lakhs to ₹34 Lakhs
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Oxford Aviation Academy
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₹19.5 Lakhs to ₹20 Lakhs
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University of New South Wales, Aviation
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₹29.30 Lakhs
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United States Air Force Academy
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No tuition fees, service commitment required in the U.S. Air Force or Space Force
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These institutes are recognized worldwide for their rigorous training standards and state-of-the-art facilities. Fee structures vary considerably depending on the region, course duration, and program intensity. Notably, the United States Air Force Academy provides pilot training without tuition fees, though graduates are required to serve in the military after completing their training.
Top Education Loan Lenders for Pilot Training
Financing pilot training can be challenging given the high costs involved. To help aspiring pilots secure the right funding, here is an updated comparison of major education loan lenders in India offering loans specifically for Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and other pilot training courses:
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Lender
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Maximum Loan Amount (INR)
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Interest Rate Range
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Repayment During Course
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Bank of Baroda
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Up to ₹1.5 Crores
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8.55% - 10.55%
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No repayment during course
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IDBI Bank
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Up to ₹30 Lakhs
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10.10% - 10.60%
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No repayment during course
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Axis Bank
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Up to ₹1.5 Crores
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10.5% - 11.5%
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Simple interest repayment
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IDFC First Bank
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Up to ₹50 Lakhs
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11% - 11.5%
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EMI repayment during course
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Avanse
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Up to ₹50 Lakhs
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10.5% - 11%
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Simple interest repayment
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Auxilo
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Up to ₹50 Lakhs
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11.5% - 12.5%
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EMI repayment during course
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HDFC Credila
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Up to ₹50 Lakhs
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10.25% - 10.75%
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EMI repayment during course
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Tata Capital
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Up to ₹50 Lakhs
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12% - 12.5%
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EMI repayment during course
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Propelld
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Upto 40 Lakhs
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12% - 14%
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Flexible Repayment with Moratorium available
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Top Lenders for Pilot Training in Detail
We have seen a comparative analysis of interest rates and loan amounts above. Now let us see the features of above lenders in detail. Because it is as important to check repayment, moratorium, processing fees, prepayment details as the interest rate is.
Bank Loan Information Tabs
Bank of Baroda
IDBI Bank
Axis Bank
IDFC First Bank
Avanse
Auxilo
HDFC Credila
Tata Capital
Propelld
Bank of Baroda
Loan Amount: Up to ₹1.5 Cr
Interest Rate: 8.55% – 10.55%
Processing Speed: 30–45 days
Repayment During Course: None
Moratorium: Course + 12 months
Collateral-Free Limit: Up to ₹7.5 L
Co-applicant: Mandatory (Parent/Guardian)
Prepayment Policy: Allowed, but charges may apply
IDBI Bank
Loan Amount: Up to ₹30 L
Interest Rate: 10.10% – 10.60%
Processing Speed: 30–40 days
Repayment During Course: None
Moratorium: Course + 12 months
Collateral-Free Limit: Up to ₹7.5 L
Co-applicant: Mandatory
Prepayment Policy: May charge penalty
Axis Bank
Loan Amount: Up to ₹1.5 Cr
Interest Rate: 10.5% – 11.5%
Processing Speed: 20–30 days
Repayment During Course: Simple interest
Moratorium: Course + 6–12 months
Collateral-Free Limit: Limited (above ₹7.5 L requires security)
Co-applicant: Mandatory
Prepayment Policy: Charges may apply
IDFC First Bank
Loan Amount: Up to ₹50 L
Interest Rate: 11% – 11.5%
Processing Speed: 20–25 days
Repayment During Course: EMI repayment required
Moratorium: Course + 6–12 months (varies)
Collateral-Free Limit: Up to ₹7.5 L (higher needs security)
Co-applicant: Mandatory
Prepayment Policy: Possible charges
Avanse (NBFC)
Loan Amount: Up to ₹50 L
Interest Rate: 10.5% – 11%
Processing Speed: 10–15 days
Repayment During Course: Simple interest
Moratorium: Course + 6–12 months
Collateral-Free Limit: Up to ₹40 L (case basis)
Co-applicant: Flexible (parents/relatives allowed)
Prepayment Policy: No penalty
Auxilo (NBFC)
Loan Amount: Up to ₹50 L
Interest Rate: 11.5% – 12.5%
Processing Speed: 10–15 days
Repayment During Course: EMI repayment required
Moratorium: Course + 12 months
Collateral-Free Limit: Up to ₹40 L (case basis)
Co-applicant: Parents/relatives allowed
Prepayment Policy: No foreclosure penalty
HDFC Credila
Loan Amount: Up to ₹50 L
Interest Rate: 10.25% – 10.75%
Processing Speed: 15–20 days
Repayment During Course: EMI repayment required
Moratorium: Course + 12 months
Collateral-Free Limit: Limited (typically ₹7.5 L)
Co-applicant: Mandatory
Prepayment Policy: May apply fees
Tata Capital (NBFC)
Loan Amount: Up to ₹50 L
Interest Rate: 12% – 12.5%
Processing Speed: 10–15 days
Repayment During Course: EMI repayment required
Moratorium: Course + 12 months
Collateral-Free Limit: Higher possibility than banks, case-based
Co-applicant: Parents/relatives allowed
Prepayment Policy: Flexible, minimal charges
Propelld (NBFC)
Loan Amount: Up to ₹40 L
Interest Rate: 12% – 14%
Processing Speed: 7–10 days
Repayment During Course: Flexible (moratorium available)
Moratorium: Course + 12 months
Collateral-Free Limit: Up to ₹40 L (no collateral required)
Co-applicant: Even relatives can apply
Prepayment Policy: No foreclosure penalty
Most NBFCs like Propelld, allow part or full prepayment without penalties. However, some private banks may charge 2–4% foreclosure fees.
Other Charges to Watch:
- Processing fee: 0.5–2% of loan.
- Late payment penalty: ~2%/month.
- Margin money: 5–15% (not always required by NBFCs).
Government Support Programs for Pilot Training
Government initiatives also play a role in supporting students pursuing aviation careers:
- The Central Sector Interest Subsidy (CSIS) program helps eligible applicants by subsidizing interest during the moratorium period.
- The Minority Education Loan Scheme offers reduced interest rates and flexible repayment terms for students from minority communities.
- Some state governments offer additional financial aid through regional programs aimed at encouraging aviation education.
How to Get an Education Loan for Pilot Training Without Collateral?
Funding pilot training is challenging due to its high cost,the condition of pledging your property makes it further inaccessible. But many banks and NBFCs in India now offer education loans for pilot training without collateral. This makes financing easier for students who don’t own property or assets.
Banks: Institutions like Bank of Baroda and IDBI Bank provide unsecured loans up to ₹7.5 lakh, depending on the applicant’s academic record, co-applicant profile, and credit history.
NBFCs: Lenders such as Avanse and Auxilo specialize in collateral-free education loans, offering higher loan amounts, faster approval, and flexible repayment plans designed for aviation students. These unsecured education loans ensure that aspiring pilots can pursue training without the burden of pledging property or assets.
Get Up to ₹40L Education Loan Without Collateral
People Also Ask
Do the funds go directly to the flying school or to the student?
Banks usually disburse directly to institutes in tranches. NBFCs may allow partial transfer to students for travel, uniforms, or living costs.
Is insurance mandatory for pilot training loans?
No, but some banks bundle it. Propelld clearly informs students, and insurance is optional.
Are Co- Applicants compulsory with all lenders?
Yes. However, banks are rigid with their requirements and may require parents only. But NBFCs are flexible. Propelld allows relatives like uncle, aunts, siblings also as co applicants.
Scholarships Available for Pilot Training
Aspiring pilots can also consider scholarships in addition to education loans, making quality training more accessible and affordable.
Here are some noteworthy scholarships that support students pursuing commercial pilot training:
- Education Future International Scholarship
- HEST 2024 – Higher Education Scholarship Test for Indian Students
- John M. Azarian Memorial Armenian Youth Scholarship
- Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP)
- Global Citizen Scholarship
- Royal Business Bank Scholarship Program
- Thomas Wall Trust Grants for Individuals 2024
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program in the USA 2024
- J. N. Tata Endowment Loan Scholarship 2024
- Ambedkar Overseas Vidya Nidhi Scholarships for SC Students 2024
- Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme (ISP) 2024
These scholarships cater to a range of eligibility criteria and offer financial aid to deserving candidates, reducing the burden of high training costs. Aspiring pilots are encouraged to research and apply early to maximize their chances of receiving funding support through these programs.
Why NBFCs are Becoming Popular for Pilot Training?
Real Student Experience:
On a popular aviation discussion thread on Reddit, a 22-year-old aspiring pilot shared his struggles:
“I applied to all the banks who give education loans but they all rejected my application saying RBI regulations don’t allow loans for pilot training programs. I don’t know what to do anymore. It feels like it isn’t meant to be.”
This highlights a very real challenge many pilot aspirants face — traditional banks in India are often reluctant to fund pilot training due to regulatory restrictions and perceived risks. This is exactly where NBFCs and digital-first lenders step in. Unlike banks, they offer education loans for pilot training without the same rigid limitations, with faster processing, collateral-free options, and flexibility in repayment.
Next, we’ll explore the eligibility criteria and required documentation to help you secure these pilot training loans.
Eligibility Criteria for Pilot Training Loans
Before applying for an education loan for pilot training, it’s important to understand the eligibility rules. Meeting these criteria can improve your chances of loan approval and make the process faster.
Tabbed Component
Education & Age
Co-Borrower
Education and Age Requirements
- Must have completed 10+2 with Physics, Mathematics, and English (mark sheets required).
- Applicants should typically be 18–35 years old.
- A valid Class 1 Medical Certificate from a DGCA-approved medical center is mandatory.
Meeting these academic and medical requirements is the first step toward qualifying for a pilot training education loan.
Co-Borrower Requirements
Most lenders require a co-applicant (co-borrower) to strengthen the application. Common options include:
- Parents: Stable income backed by salary slips, Form 16, or ITRs.
- Legal Guardian: Verified relationship documents + supporting financial proof.
- Spouse: Proof of consistent income along with identity and income verification.
A financially strong co-borrower not only improves your loan approval chances but can also help you secure better loan terms.
Cannot find an eligible co applicant? Find out How to get an Education Loan without a Co Applicant.
With Propelld, Relatives can be your Education Loan Co-Applicant too.
Once your eligibility is confirmed, it’s time to gather the necessary documents.
Documents Required for Education Loan for Pilot Training
Make sure all your paperwork is well-organized. You’ll need the following:
Personal Documents
- Government-issued ID
- Recent passport-size photos
- Proof of residence
- Academic transcripts
Course Documents
- Admission letter from a DGCA-approved flying school
- Detailed fee structure
- Course duration certificate
- Class 1 medical certificate
Financial Documents
- Bank statements for the last six months
- Co-applicant’s income proofs
- Latest Form 16 or Income Tax Returns
- Bank account details for loan disbursement
Additional Requirements (if applicable)
- Collateral documents
- Declaration forms
- For international training: Student visa and foreign exchange documents
- Indemnity bond
It’s a good idea to keep both digital and physical copies of these documents handy for quick access.
How to Apply for an Education Loan for Pilot Training?
Here’s a step-by-step guide and points to remember while applying your education loan for pilot training:
1. Organize Your Documents Early
- Create separate digital and physical folders for paperwork.
- Start preparing at least 2–3 months before applying.
- Ensure all documents are signed, updated, and valid.
2. Apply Online for Faster Processing
- Fill out the online form carefully.
- Upload clear, color scans of required documents.
- Track the status of your application via the portal.
Online applications usually take 15–20 days, compared to 30–45 days for traditional banks.
3. Double-Check Before Submission
- Recheck your personal, academic, and financial details.
- Save digital copies of all communication with your lender.
- Keep original documents ready for physical verification, if needed.
4. Stay on Top of Timelines
- Respond quickly if the lender asks for more documents.
- Use a digital calendar to track deadlines and follow-up dates.
Digital-first lenders like Propelld can disburse funds in as little as 7 days, helping you focus on your aviation career without unnecessary delays.
Expenses Covered in Education Loan for Pilot Training
When availing an education loan for pilot training, several key expenses related to the course and related necessities are typically covered by banks and financial institutions
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Expense Category
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What It Covers
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Notes
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Tuition Fees
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Enrollment, simulator sessions, ground training
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Core component of the loan
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Living Expenses
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Hostel/rental, food, daily needs
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Included by most lenders
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Examination & Licensing Fees
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DGCA, FAA exams, pilot license issuance
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Needs to be specifically requested
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Health Insurance
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Medical coverage for overseas training
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Usually mandatory for abroad courses
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Travel Costs
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Airfare to and from training institute/country
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Approved on request
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Miscellaneous Costs
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Visa fees, medical tests, course-specific charges
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Subject to lender approval
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Advantages of Taking an Education Loan for Pilot Training
If you aspire to become a commercial pilot but face financial constraints, availing a pilot training loan in India can be a smart decision. These loans make high-quality aviation training more accessible by covering major expenses like tuition, living costs, and travel. Additionally, they come with tax benefits under Section 80E and offer flexible repayment options for students.
Coverage of Comprehensive Expenses
Beyond tuition fees, the loan also covers living expenses, travel costs, examination fees, and other training-related necessities.
Flexible Repayment Options
Borrowers enjoy moratorium periods during training, enabling them to focus on completing the program before starting repayments.
Tax Benefits
Under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act, deductions can be claimed on the interest paid, helping reduce the overall financial burden.
Extended Repayment Period
Loan tenures can extend up to 15 years, allowing students to manage repayments comfortably after securing employment.
Cost-Saving Tips on your Education Loan
Here are a few ways to make the most of your pilot training loan and save more:
Track Your Interest Payments
Regularly review your interest payments to ensure you claim all eligible deductions.
Stay Organized
Keep all loan-related documents in order to quickly respond to any verification requests from the tax authorities.
Leverage Joint Loans
If you have a co-applicant, consider assigning the tax deduction to the individual in a higher tax bracket to maximize savings.
Remember, Section 80E deductions apply only to the interest portion of the loan repayment. For further details, check out our guide on education loan tax benefit section 80E.
Becoming a pilot is a dream that comes with high financial commitments, but the right education loan can make it achievable without overwhelming students or their families.
From covering tuition fees and flying hours to living expenses and exam charges, education loans for pilot training provide the financial support needed to focus entirely on training. With flexible repayment options, tax benefits, and collateral-free loan opportunities, aspiring pilots can take off on their career journeys with confidence.
For students looking for faster approvals and tailor-made solutions, Propelld offers education loans designed to ease the burden of pilot training costs and help you soar toward your aviation dreams.
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